Photo: Scenes from the 1926 movie "Palaver" shot in Bauchi-Plateau province.

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It is recognized today as the first Nigerian movie feature.

Naration:
In August 1926, Bioscope featured editorials assessing the British film industry and emphasizing the importance of showcasing British films throughout the Empire.

The then Prime Minister, Stanley Baldwin, had called for action in 1925, expressing concerns about foreign control over film propaganda and advocating for British influence in shaping narratives about their territories.

In 1926, a film titled "PALAVER: A ROMANCE OF NORTHERN NIGERIA" was produced under this initiative, shot in the Bauchi Plateau province among the Sura and Angas people of Northern Nigeria. The plot revolves around the rivalry between a British District Officer and a tin miner, leading to war.

The narrative unfolds with an opening title highlighting its authenticity claims and the British perspective of 'civilizing' Africa, showcasing the historical transformation from cannibalism to civilization in less than ten years.

You can find a link to the movie in the comment section.

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